We’re in the midst of peak wedding season, which means we’re working our way through a seemingly endless parade of pre-wedding events between all the engagement parties, bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, etc. It’s a period rife with jubilation and, sometimes, a bit of trepidation—at least, that’s the feeling that comes up for me when figuring out what to wear to a bridal shower as a guest.
It can be challenging to navigate the different dress codes that surround a wedding and all its supplemental events. It’s one thing to plan out an outfit idea for the big day—years of cultural customs and historical traditions have given us a pretty good idea of what to wear (and not) for such an occasion. But crafting a bridal shower guest outfit? Well, that’s trickier and a lot more open-ended.
Based on the bride-to-be’s discretion and taste, not to mention how well the bridal party or family members interpret that, the event’s vibe can range from a casual bridal shower at a local brewery to a semi-formal event like a high tea to a fully black-tie affair that rivals the reception itself. That’s why having some styling tips for every kind of special occasion in your back pocket is essential.
Thankfully, we found one celebrity stylist who isn’t gate-keeping his knowledge: Mickey Freeman. The good news? Freeman says bridal showers offer more opportunity to display your personal style than other events. “Dressing for a bridal shower has always been a distinctive experience compared to other special occasions,” Freeman tells Glamour. “It presents the attendee with the opportunity to creatively express their individuality as well as their zeal to be in attendance.”
If that sounds easier said than done, keep reading: Freeman helped us create a guide to dressing for every type of bridal shower. Consider this your blueprint to becoming the best-dressed guest at every wedding event this summer.
But First, Define the Bridal Shower’s Dress Code
Every bridal shower comes with its own dress code and expectations around what guests should and shouldn’t wear. Still, it’s more straightforward than one might think. The key is just learning the slight distinctions between each type of dress code and styling your bridal party look accordingly.
If the invite says “semi-formal,” for example, then you’ll want to keep it dressy. “For semi-formal codes, you want to ensure you’re incorporating elements of eveningwear into your look,” Freeman says. He suggests pairing a tuxedo jacket with slightly more informal pieces, like tailored pants, as an example. A mid-length or maxi dress is always a safe bet for this type of dress code, too. Ceremonies that call for cocktail attire, however, are “a bit more casual with a polished twist” like a cocktail dress or fitted suit set. Freeman says the tailored silhouettes and intricate details of the Met Gala’s recent Dandy theme is a good place to look for inspiration.
In general, any formal dress codes—semi or not—will require you to get more dressed up as opposed to something like a “garden party dress code.” For that, Freeman says to look for “outdoor-conscious wear.” That is, clothing that is appropriate for whatever environment the event is taking place in, such as a breathable linen suit or comfortable wedge heels. And while a casual dress code is the most relaxed option, you’ll still want to look put together and avoid anything overly casual (like ripped jeans). Think more like sundresses or a tailored pant with a breezy blouse.
Simkhai Koa Dress
Amazon
Line & Dot Celesta Maxi Dress
Amazon
Styling Tip #1: Match the Dress Code, With a Twist
“Although bridal showers are rife with many different themes and dress codes, they’re usually an environment in which adherence to aesthetics is scrutinized drastically less than an actual wedding,” says Freeman. Put another way, you probably are overthinking your bridal shower outfit.
As long as you keep the dress code in mind, you should be safe. “You don’t want to be the guest wearing white or wildly overdressed,” Freeman says. “But also, don’t be afraid to try to find a balance between adhering to the rules and finding comfort and creative expression.” Inject bits of your personality into your bridal shower outfit by pairing comfortable staples—your favorite heels, the handbag you take everywhere—with a statement piece or two like a draped blouse or formal loafers.
Ganni Tie-Detailed Ruffled Shirred Organic Cotton-Poplin Tank
Net-A-Porter
Loeffler Randall Landon Soft Ballet Flat
Nordstrom
Styling Tip #2: Pay Attention to the Fit and Fabric
A bridal shower is probably not the time for extreme cleavage or a see-through dress, even if the outfit technically meets the dress code. “Although bridal showers are more relaxed in nature, expressing overt sexuality through your look can come off as inappropriate for the occasion,” says Freeman. “Be conscious of the garment’s comfort in its fabric and fit.”
When shopping for a bridal shower, double check the neckline of the jumpsuit, blouse, or dress, avoid anything too skin-tight, and go for more modest hemlines like a mid-thigh length or longer.
Reformation Carolina Silk Skirt
Reformation
J. Crew Smocked-Bodice Midi Dress in Blooming Lilac Block Print
J. Crew
Styling Tip #3: Factor in the Theme
If you happen to be attending a bridal shower with a prominent theme, Freeman says it’s worth finding subtle ways to speak to it. For example, if the wedding shower invitation calls for a tea party, dress up in a bright floral dress with a basket-weave bag.
Realtix Strapless Maxi Dress
Amazon
Poolside Montauk Bucket Bag
Amazon
Styling Tip #4: Consider the Weather and Venue
“It might seem obvious, but one of the most common mistakes is choosing a bridal shower outfit isn’t failing to adhere to the dress code,” says Freeman. “It’s forgetting to consider other factors, including the weather, venue, and other prospective guests.
For a more casual outdoor party, like a brunch or picnic, look for weather-friendly pieces like a breezy sundress or a jumpsuit made from lightweight materials like cotton or linen.
Mango Flowy Printed Trousers
Mango
Tory Burch Pierced Multi-Strap Heeled Sandal
Tory Burch
Styling Tip #5: Use the Bride’s Color Palette
One of the easiest ways to craft a chic ensemble for any wedding-related celebration? Embrace the bride’s color palette for the wedding. “Finding ways to incorporate the color theme chosen by the bride will not only ensure you align with their creative vision but will make choosing a look far less stressful,” Freeman says.
Besides opting for a matching set in the engaged couple’s chosen shades, you can also incorporate their theme through accessories like a pastel clutch bag, stacked jewelry in different hues, or colorblocked heels.
Mansur Gavriel Gaia Leather Shoulder Bag
Nordstrom
Shashi Rojo Necklace
Amazon
Styling Tip #6: Embrace Prints
When in doubt, there’s a styling trick that can make any bridal shower dress ultra-stylish: prints. “Bridal showers are, for obvious reasons, synonymous with the idea of new beginnings,” Freeman says. “So one can’t go wrong with embracing floral prints.”
If florals feel a little much, go for more subtle patterns like polka dots, nautical stripes, or tonal gingham.
Aequem Squareneck Dress
Amazon
Doen Belline Check Midi Dress
Nordstrom
Styling Tip #7: Go Minimalist With Neutral Shades
But the safest bet of all when it comes to styling a look for any occasion are those tried-and-true neutral shades: black, tan, olive, gray, and navy. “Opting for neutral items will always ensure you look and feel your best at any wedding celebration,” Freeman says. “Just be sure to avoid wearing white until it’s distinctly mentioned in the invitation.” A matching suit set in one of these shades can be a way to up the style factor without feeling too risky.
ALC Harper Dress
Amazon
Pistola Denim Dani Cinched Waist Cardigan
Amazon
Styling Tip #8: Dress From the Inside Out
Whether it’s your first time attending a bridal shower or you’ve been a bridesmaid in several wedding parties, the ultimate styling rule in Freeman’s book is to dress from the inside out. “I believe bridal showers are the perfect type of event to allow your joy to inspire you,” the expert says. Put another way, it’s a perfect time to go for a look that’s more extroverted than something you’d usually choose, even if you just keep that to the accessories. It is a celebration, after all!
For Love & Lemons Cassandra Heels
For Love & Lemons
J. Crew Small Handknotted Crochet Bag with Beads
J. Crew
The post What to Wear to a Bridal Shower as a Guest, According to a Celebrity Stylist appeared first on Glamour.
